Learn to Fly

JULY 11, 2024

Did you know that loss of control (LOC) is the number one root cause of fatalities in both general aviation (GA) and commercial aviation? An angle of attack (AOA) indicator can determine the aerodynamic health of the airfoil (wing). More than 25% of GA fatal accidents occur during the maneuvering phase of flight.

Airfoil 40

Airfoil Center of Gravity Density Altitude Drag 40

Fear of Landing

MARCH 22, 2024

Glass cockpits are in use on commercial, military, and general aviation aircraft, and on NASA’s space shuttle fleet. One of the most revolutionary was the “area rule,” a concept that helped aircraft designers avoid the disruption in airflow and resulting drag caused by the attachment of the wings to the fuselage.

Wind Shear 52

Wind Shear Airfoil Drag Airlines 52

Plane and Pilot

OCTOBER 3, 2024

Winging It Aside from the aforementioned desire for a greater aspect ratio for reduced drag, the one-piece Gweduck wing was developed for minimal weight, ease of construction and benign handling. Keeping drag corralled was emphasized as the Gweduck mission is foremost long-distance cruising.

Airplanes 78

Airplanes Rudder Knot Aileron 78

Plane and Pilot

DECEMBER 16, 2024

General aviation is driven by myriad forces. For one thing, the F2s fuselage hangs from a completely new wing with two distinct airfoil shapes. An obvious discontinuity leads to a thinner airfoil inboard. You’ll note a change in drag with final flaps accompanied by a mild pitch change.

Rudder 98

Rudder Airplanes Aileron Crosswind 98